2002 Citroen C3 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2002 Citroen C3. (87 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2002 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen C3 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | C3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1359 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
